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For a start, will be two fixed brightness version available... Note 1: If the drive current does not suit you, please PM me know we'll work out something.Note 2: I must say this again, the E-MT hot spot is smaller compared to the original MN03 bulb. MN03 has further throw, E-MT has more flood.Note 3: Test/Specifications data is based on a Lux III TWOJ mounted on a huge sink. The Rebel has a lower vf, don't be surprise if efficiency gets better .

Finally, after a long wait... yclo sent me some pictures... they arrrived last week. For those who didn't know, yclo is responsible for the aluminium towers. I didn't post earlier because we couldn't tell when the Rebels are coming. We manage to swoop a very limited quantity of premium tint Rebel 100. More details later when they've arrived. The Rebels are *very rare* at the moment, they cost us a bomb but we decided to absorb the cost.

Unfortunately we don't have enough Rebels for everyone on the unofficial list, people who come later may have to wait till mid January, when the Rebels appear again. We are terribly sorry if you happen to be the group of people. Please do not ask for premium tint Rebels in the future because we do not know if we'll ever get a chance like this again. One thing is for sure, you won't be getting unreasonable off-white tint because I would not allow such LED to go with the E-MT.

These are the long awaited E-Series MicroTowers (E-MT)

*** Update 11th October 2007 ***

For those who are looking to have the ultimate brightness E-MT, I have not so good news for you. I don't feel comfortable pushing the parts to its' limit. So ~900mA will be the max nominal LED drive current for *custom* made high brightness E-MT F2. Finally, at 900mA LED drive current, your looking at ~70C/158F (after 20mins). Something to think about...

*** Update 29th September 2007 ***

It has been sometime... yclo and me met up last night and we did some minor touch up to the dimensions and finalize on the cost. I guess this is the moment you all have been waiting for. We focus hard to keep our cost down, exhausted our list of manufacturing sources, tried to reduce the cost where possible. Now we have a figure. The price for a fully assembled and tested E-MT F1/F2 is $65 includes International Shipping. If we price any lower than that, we would have to scratch the project.

The Luxeon Rebels 100 are missing from my sources I hope they will become available again when all the parts have arrived. I have not much choice on the tint but it will be Cool White as the 100 Lumens parts are. Most reports I have seen is close to white slight yellow not blue. It will take at least four weeks for production, blame the guys at the CNC shop.

The multi-mode microcontroller E-MT FM will be available in 2008. I have not finalize on the parts yet.

We will only make as many as required there will not be extra as we don't want any left overs. If you are still going for the towers, please re-edit your post, stating your choice of tower and quantity. I will set up a pre-order list mid-way the production.

thanks for reading,
Vince.

*** Update 6th September 2007 ***

The 2.5-10V multi-mode driver will be delayed. We have decided that two versions of the single mode dumb tower (non microprocessor) version will be offered first since that's what majority wants. I will post specifications as soon as the parts arrives. The PCB is still being worked on. It's harder than I thought. To make a sloppy tower, just stick the Rebel on and stuff the electronics on a hand milled circuit board into the tower. It's simple. To make it look good is hard.

Once the single mode dumb towers are made, you all can sign up for the microprocessor multi-mode tower.

For those of you who like it low, it will be really low. It will be as low 5mA. That's as min as I can go because I don't want the sense resistor value to be too high which may have a tiny impact on the efficiency. It's a very small number but I like to make it look good. To me, efficiency is most important factor in a battery/portable application. I could use a higher value sense resistor and go 1mA if you make enough noise .

It will cost a bit more than the dumb towers, since there a lot more work in the software and additional component cost. The dumb driver uses hardware IC for regulation. It will not work for a wide range of voltage. For those who like to have the 2.5-10V but single mode microprocessor, Yes I'll do that. I have been thinking of a survival mode in the driver. There will be a hidden mode so that you can trigger(say 5 clicks) when you need it, then the light will switch to lower level so you will have a 2-4x longer running light. The 5 clicks is there to prevent activation while your doing your tactical actions with the tail cap. So it's actually a 1 mode E-MT with a hidden feature.

We are working hard, hang on tight guys!

*** Update 1st September 2007 ***

Fresh from yclo workshop...
Yes the tower is a bit higher than the MN01/2/3, compensate for some variation in the E-series lights. Reduced to exact height in the final production.

Who
This is a collaboration project between yclo and koala. One day, I looked at my E2D, it would be nice to have a longer running light. I am not so interested in super long throwing light as there are others that do that, this is more like a bright flood light with a medium range hotspot to boot. The unique output is a result of the design of E series reflector. So I talked to yclo and challenged his mighty lathe skills. He jumped on the bait and designed me a cool adjustable focusing tower. It's so simple and genius work, to catch the exact focus height. He did it in like 3 seconds. The project is suppose to be once off for myself, it seems to be quite useful so we're making it available.

I know most people like the design of the E2D crenelated bezel and also the petite size of the original E series reflector. This is a direct drop in, there is no modifications required to the bezel. It is designed to replace the original incandescent lamp assembly. I always wanted to do this but there is no suitable LED available, thanks for Lumileds it's finally possible with modified Rebels.

During the development, it has come to our knowledge that the idea has been executed by a Japanese CPF member "belyo" with the Rebel 50 lumens. His findings are very close to what we have. I must say these Japanese are very quick and innovative. My hats off to them. The show must go on.

What's in it?
On top of the E-MT sits a modified Luxeon Rebel. This does not seems to have any effect on the Rebel output wise. It is still being tested so I can't say for sure there is no problem for now. The E-MT also houses the electronics that works with 2.5V - 10V. I am especially proud about the wide operating voltage. Which also means it will be compatible with 1x CR123A/RCR123, 2x CR123A/RCR123, 3x CR132A. So you can use it in almost all of the Surefire E series including the 3 cell(9V) UBH. This may change depending on the efficiency. A second version may be made for 1 cell lights to better suit the lower input voltage for achieving higher efficiency. The E-MT is compatible with heads that fits MN01/2/3 lamp assembly.

Currently in development, is the multistage controller which is also the buck-boost controller. The planned modes are Dim, Low and High. There is no plans for super crazy advance UI, to keep the bugs down, there will be at most, user adjustable brightness level. I'll try to keep it as simple as possible so it will be simple to use.

Performance
Pitted against the orignal 60 lumens(true output) MN03 lamp assembly the E-MT will look weaker. That is because the reflector isn't optimised for the Rebel LED and also, incan warm color is distinctive. But hey, the flood/spill intensity is so much more brighter!! If you need a light for medium range work, the E-MT will make you smile. Then again it's very close and the E-MT will run much longer on high.

I must say the output is quite unique. I haven't seen such beam before in my lights and it works very well indoor and also outdoors. Most lights sacrifice spill for hotspot but not this one, it has the brightest spill I've seen to date. Think of it as a wide-angle flashlight with usable spill and medium intensity hotspot. The module gets warm after 30 minutes on High.

Cost
The price of the E-MT is $65 including shipping. We are in Australia, things don't come cheap here. Average price of a MAG 2D can cost US$65 here, a Surefire G2 USD$70 if you look hard. Please note that the E-MT is a custom made drop-in not mass produced. We'll try to keep the price reasonable but it will not be cheap.
When
Available for order now.

I know everyone loves pictures so here we go... beamshots at the end.

"yclo" alloy productions...The prototype module, does not quite fit in the body, yet...

KL5 5W Luxeon V stock (1 meter away)5W may look dimmer but the hotspot is actually very high intensity. I used a 5W for comparison because it is the only throw+flood light I have.

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

For specifications, and E-MT related information please ^^ scroll up ^^.For Pre Order List please continue to next post(#4) of this thread.

Which one suits me best? This is the question I get all the time. I hope you have read all the E-MT related information in the very first post before making any decisions.

E-MT F1 - Single cell only. Near flat regulation, sharp knee drop at the end. As bright as E-MT F2 when driven with a single rechargeable Lithium-Ion. Please carry a spare CR123.
E-MT F2 - Slightly regulated, will suck cells dry. Works quite well with 17650(long runtime) but it won't be as bright as E-MT F1. You will need at least 4.0volts to unleash the maximum potential of E-MT F2. So the optimum configuration for E-MT F2 is 2 cells.

Final price for F1 and F2 is $65 including postage. No payment is required until it is ready to ship. If you don't have the means of making the payment please don't order and hog the line. CPF members need to be courteous.

As a buyer I suggest that -You- read all the posts regarding the E-MT. Do your own research regarding the type and features of E-MT. Decide if the E-MT will suit you. Don't follow blindly, don't trust the hype. The E-MT is NOT a far throwing bright light.

Here's some sale policy PLEASE READ. I hate these but we try to make things as simple as possible.

New Orders
Please make a new post, indicating the favour of E-MT F1/F2 and the quantity. Your order will be updated in next posts as soon as possible. If your order is not listed within 3 days please PM koala or PM yclo. We may be too busy making E-MT, posting stuff, watching TV, eating cereal...

Changes to Order
If for whatever reason you have emptied the money from the stash, that's fine. Please make a new post to cancel your order. Please do not wait until PM asking for payment. That is not very prompt and it hogs the line. Don't be discourteous. Procedure is the same for late order alterations.
Payment
Once your E-MT is ready to ship you will receive a PM or email regarding payment instructions. Please make sure that your PM inbox is cleared and ready to receive. Members with PM disabled will receive an email. Please make sure we have a mode of communication. Payment method is via Paypal. We will refund your money in full(minus paypal fees) if we cannot ship in a timely manner.
Warranty
None implied. However, we take our time to build and test all units before shipping. All E-MT F1/F2 goes through reasonable continuous burn-in at maximum drive current. If you received an E-MT DOA, that means we really hate you .
note: E-MT burn in will be performed in an E-series bezel and body there will be regular wear marks on the tower.

RepairIf for whatever reason your E-MT breaks, you pay for shipping both ways, we fix it for free. This does not include user mishaps such as, "My dog chewed off the Rebel", "I tried to mod the E-MT and..." you get the idea. If it is modified or no longer original there will be a repair fee.

Shipping
Price of E-MT includes postage via International regular airmail. Shipping times is 7-14 working days depending on where you are. We are not responsible for lost of package or mishandling. Insurance is available for additional $8 but not for all countries.

Finally...
koala & yclo - Has no whatsoever affiliation with Surefire, LLC and Lumileds Lightning, LLC. We are not liable for any sort of damage or accidents that is caused by the use of our product.

If you have expressed your interest earlier, I have moved your wishes to the next post. If you wish to change your order please do so. If you wish to make an order, please post in this thread. It's kinda long list, I hope I have not make a mistake there. Please PM koala if your order is not correct, don't make a new post.

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

For folks just joining this "new" thread (the old one was getting a tad long), I would just like to say these
are superb lamp assemblies for the Surefire E-series lights; you just can't go wrong ordering one of these
babies! That dinky little Rebel LED gives a really nice beam and color (for a LED).

The only reason I'm not buying several more of each is that I'm holding out for the FM model...these are
too bright for a lot of close-in work.

Great Job, Koala & yclo!

-RDH

There is no sensation keener or more active than that of pain.
It is merely a matter of jangling all of our nerves with the most violent possible sensation.
-Count Donatien Alphonse Francois DeSade

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

Hello guys, a good amount of Rebels will show up tomorrow morning from our local Aus supplier. I hope this will fuel the current demand. I have got very short time until I leave town hopefully I will be able to build them. The parts are all soldered on to the PCB and most of them has been tested, just slap them on to the towers when the Rebels come in.

ycloandkoala has been working hard on several projects. So our apologies for the hiccup and wait. Some quite interesting stuff due April 2008, hopefully.

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

I forgot all about this thread until I found a reference to it in another one tonight. This is a great drop in setup I'd like to get in on one but I need to ask if you are aware of this info first as I'd hate to buy an LED drop in that would last less hours than an incandescent: Rebels on the loose I'll just say I hope these will still be available after reading the link above as it will finish a project E2D I've had on the back burner for about 2 years. Great idea!

There is no important work, there are only a series of moments to demonstrate your mastery and impeccability. Quote from Almine

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

Update: In fact, I should drive them all since the RRA states failure rate of 10-30%. I didn't order a reel, hopefully I'll get the manufacture date code.

Week 44 2007 - Week 02 2008, that's somewhere Oct 07?

All sold E-MTs was built with Rebels 100 that has been sitting around for a long time so it's probably manufactured before Nov 07. If not I will have a few which is dead by now.

The in bound batch, well I am not so sure , I still haven't got them, the courier is playing the hide and seek game again. I'll check with my supplier right away. If I don't get an answer I shall drive a few random at 1.5A and see what happens after a few days. That should fix the epoxy .

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

So sorry to bring that bad news but figured you should know about it and hopefully didn't get the bad ones. At the worst I guess it's a matter of replacing some LED's and I would hope Philips takes care of everyone the right way and has replacements for all their distributors.

There is no important work, there are only a series of moments to demonstrate your mastery and impeccability. Quote from Almine

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

Im really interested in the FM(but not waiting for it!, i'll just have to order another one)

not because I really would like to switch all that often. From my experience, when using a light at full power, you are doing instantaneous on- off cycles- Generally no longer than 10 seconds. With that said, if your doing search and rescue, you will use it a lot longer- possibly over an hour. In terms of clicks- or presses- I dont know how you have it setup. Id stay away from morse code letters and what not. I'd do something like 6 half second flashes (on, ******) then on the last press, start dimming. On the last press and hold, it will dim to where you want , where you'll let go, and press again. Hold for 4 second, it will set it. If you let go and press again within that 4 seconds, it will start getting brighter. release, press, hold for 4 second, and it will set it.

Re: Surefire E-Series MicroTower (E-MT) LED drop in - Part II

To all, updated the pre-order list. A small batch should be ready soon. No stinkin Rebels, so no worries about them go poof.

Hi madmax718

I don't know what do you mean by 'hold' I don't think you can hold it, the E-series can be only on or off. There is a UI that will lock the E-MT FM into just 1 mode so you can do your tactical stunt as you like.

To make things simple, perhaps I should limit the brightness levels to 5 instead of a dimming mode. I have several used lights that dim, they dim too fast, by the time I can react it's already pass the desired level. I am not sure about this, I'll see what the people who would like a FM say. I am open to all suggestions since you all are the end user.

Don't worry I am not a big fan of unlocking dial safe so it won't be very complicated.

Vincent.

Originally Posted by madmax718

not because I really would like to switch all that often. From my experience, when using a light at full power, you are doing instantaneous on- off cycles- Generally no longer than 10 seconds. With that said, if your doing search and rescue, you will use it a lot longer- possibly over an hour. In terms of clicks- or presses- I dont know how you have it setup. Id stay away from morse code letters and what not. I'd do something like 6 half second flashes (on, ******) then on the last press, start dimming. On the last press and hold, it will dim to where you want , where you'll let go, and press again. Hold for 4 second, it will set it. If you let go and press again within that 4 seconds, it will start getting brighter. release, press, hold for 4 second, and it will set it.